With the summer season in full swing, adventure seekers, outdoors enthusiasts, families, and pretty much anyone looking to spend time outside in the Panhandle should pay a visit to Pedal & Paddle in Shepherdstown (115 W. German Street).

Eddie Sampson opened Pedal & Paddle in 2007 because of his love for both the outdoors and Shepherdstown. With bike trails and a river nearby, the location proved perfect for a guy looking to open a shop that sells and rents bikes, kayaks, canoes, and other merchandise.

Recently, East Coast rains have flooded what many consider the Shepherdstown playground that is the Potomac River and adjoining C/O Canal tow path. Even then, cyclists stopped in to rent bikes with super-large tires to speed through the muddy terrain. Not to worry, the river is back down and Eddie and his staff are happily shuttling customers “down the hill” to the river, and hours of floating fun.

To that end, riders of every age and style can enjoy a group ride with Pedal & Paddle every Saturday and Sunday as an alternative method of viewing the local sights. For more intense, experienced cyclists, there are long-distance group rides—which are also open to everyone.

Eddie Sampson

Although customers can enjoy a myriad of rentals or purchases (as well as full-service bike repair and maintenance), Eddie still feels like he could do more. In the near future, he hopes to add electric bikes for customers to rent or buy.

He also recently stepped up Pedal & Paddle’s game by adding staff. “Everyone in here is helping each other out—it’s an awesome experience,” he emphasized. “There’s a great team atmosphere. We get a lot of comments about people loving the vibe of the shop. It’s small, but people love what we do.”

For more information, make sure to stop in when you’re in town; otherwise, visit the above links or call 304-876-3000.